Mexican Lacquer Work
Artist: Juan Vasquez Minor

Several painted gourds by Juan Vasquez Minor

Contrary to the assertion of some historians, the art of lacquer is originally from Mexico, regardless of the tradition of the Far East. Mexican lacquer work consists of applying successive layers of a fatty substance and a mixture of limestone powder and colorants, which may be natural or synthetic. Each layer is immediately polished to shine. This forms a smooth surface color, fully integrated to the base, generally a gourd or a wooden object. The fatty substances are extracted from an insect and chia oil, a plant, both are from the American soil and have been used since prehispanic times. Recently, linseed oil is being used, but it is generally considered to be of lower quality.

Being concerned about the decline in quality due to the substitution of materials, Bancomer Cultural Foundation sponsored a series of three meetings between industry artisans from different states of the Republic. These artisans shared experiences and techniques and it was  agreed to supply raw materials to the centers where it was lacking.  Currently the production sites of lacquered pieces are: Chiapa de Corzo, Chiapas; Olinalá Temalacatzingo and Acapetlahuaya, Guerrero, Uruapan and Patzcuaro, Michoacan. There is a small production for non-commercial use between indigenous Huichol Tepehuano in Durango and Jalisco.

In the fine detail only natural colors are used.

                                                                                                                                       
Juan Vasquez Minor was born in Temalacatzingo, Guerrero 39 years ago. Son of artisans, Juan's mother was influential the vocation of rescuing the use of chia oil and natural pigments.  The resulting painted gourds are decorated entirely with natural mineral and plant colors and finished, inside and out, with the traditional chia oil. Juan recently won 2nd place in popular painting, within the National Handicraft Award, the city of Toluca, Mexico State.

Las Manitas is fortunate to have several examples of his work for sale.  These magnificent painted gourds are examples of the very finest Mexican folk art.  A gourd of this quality is something to treasure for a lifetime.